Vijay Anand is widely regarded as one of the most influential filmmakers in Indian cinema, particularly known for his timeless classic Guide. While this masterpiece is often his most celebrated work, his contributions to the film industry extend far beyond this iconic film. With his unparalleled ability to craft compelling narratives, innovative song sequences, and draw out stellar performances from his actors, Vijay Anand redefined storytelling in Hindi cinema.
Waheeda Rehman: Guide’s Defining Moment For Waheeda Rehman, Guide was a career-defining film. She credited Vijay Anand’s directorial brilliance for her memorable portrayal of Rosy, saying, “He was one of the best directors I ever worked with. Without his vision and direction, Rosy in Guide wouldn’t have been possible. He knew exactly how to bring the best out of his actors.” Waheeda also fondly remembered their earlier collaboration in Kala Bazar.
Vyjayanthimala: Masterful Song Picturization Though Vyjayanthimala was initially set to star in Guide, she later worked with Vijay Anand in the classic Jewel Thief. The actress recalled, “Vijay Anand’s sense of music and song picturization was unparalleled. The song Hothon Mein Aisi Baat in Jewel Thief still remains iconic, showcasing the timeless quality of his work.”
Asha Parekh: A Genius in Song Sequences Asha Parekh, who worked with Vijay Anand in Teesri Manzil and Kahin Aur Chal, praised his unique storytelling style. She stated, “His brilliance became evident when I saw his shot compositions. His mastery over song sequences was unmatched, and even filmmakers like Sanjay Leela Bhansali have drawn inspiration from his work.”
Raakhee Gulzar: Capturing Beauty Onscreen Raakhee, who collaborated with Vijay Anand in Blackmail, shared how he had a special ability to present his heroines in the best light. “Even when I was pregnant during Blackmail, I have never looked more beautiful on screen. His song picturization in Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas was pure magic,” she reminisced.
Hema Malini: A Mentor and Guru For Hema Malini, Vijay Anand was more than just a director—he was a mentor. She recalled, “When I started in the industry, Johnny Mera Naam was my first major film. Vijay Anand taught me how to face the camera. He, along with Dev Saab, was my guide during those early years. Our pairing was so successful that producers continued casting us together, but none of our later films had the same impact as Johnny Mera Naam.”
Vijay Anand’s legacy as a filmmaker is etched in the fabric of Indian cinema. From Guide to Jewel Thief, Teesri Manzil, and Johnny Mera Naam, his films continue to be celebrated for their unique visual storytelling, unforgettable songs, and compelling narratives. As the industry remembers him on his death anniversary, Vijay Anand is honored not just as a filmmaker, but as a visionary who transformed the landscape of Hindi cinema.
